The supple texture of suede fabric lends itself to a wide variety of clothing styles

The supple texture of suede fabric lends itself to a wide variety of clothing styles. The garments it creates are usually very comfortable to wear, but it’s important to take care of the material correctly so that the garments last longer. In this article, we’ll take a look at the process of making suede fabric so that you can do your part to help preserve the quality and longevity of this luxurious textile.

Suede is a type of leather made from the skin of animals. The natural version is made from lambskin, but it can also be created from the hides of other animals, including pigs, goats, cattle, and sheep. The leather industry typically kills these animals very young in order to preserve the smoothness of their skin. This can have a negative impact on the environment, as raising livestock requires a great deal of energy and resources.

Next, the animal’s hair is removed from the skin using a chemical treatment. The skin is then split and the soft textured side is used to make suede fabric. Depending on the end use of the suede, it may be dyed. Unlike traditional leather, the unique texture of suede absorbs and accepts dyes very well, which is why it’s so popular for shoes and handbag lining.

In the case of synthetic suede, which is also referred to as faux suede or microsuede, polyester is used as the base material. This is then combined with plasticizers to form the final fabric, which is a bit harder and less pliable than genuine suede but still suitable for many projects. Unlike genuine suede, faux suede is machine washable and dryer safe.

When sewing with suede, it’s a good idea to do a trial pattern layout before cutting the actual fabric. This will help you determine the size of your seam and hem allowances. Since most nonwoven suedes don’t ravel, standard hem and seam allowances can be eliminated in order to save fabric. Woven or fabric-based synthetic suedes, on the other hand, should be sewn with conventional seam and hem allowances.

If you’re sewing with natural suede, be sure to purchase your materials from a reputable supplier so that you’re getting the highest quality possible. Check the vendor’s website to learn more about their reputation and the materials they sell. Then, be sure to read the reviews and customer feedback before making a purchase.

When working with suede, it’s also a good idea to line your garments to help them keep their shape and stay clean longer. A woven or fabric-based lightweight lining is suitable for most suede garments, and it’s a good idea to choose a color that coordinates with your fabric. This will add an additional level of detail to your garments while protecting the fabric from sweat and oil that can stain it over time.